Two letters: Peninsula War-dated LS, in French, signed “Napol” (somewhat less abbreviated than usual), one page, 7 x 9, dated June 10, 1811. Napoleon writes to “Mon cousin” (a friendly term of endearment), in full: “Inform General Monthieu that, upon the first news of the movement of the brigands on the border, he should have marched to Bayonne the sections of the 31st, 114th, 115th, 117th, 118th, 119th, and 120th, thereby offering at least three teams of 300 men, which in turn would have created a force of 2000 men for the Bayonne guard. Give order to this General to survey the 4th and 5th battalions by June 15, and to inform you of their situation, the number of conscripts they have received and should still receive, as well as the state of their uniforms and arms, so that I may order the formation of a provisional regiment which will provide a reserve of 2 or 3000 men. Meantime I pray that God keep you in his sacred and worthy care.” In 1813, the Duke of Wellington would head a multi-national force against the French in the Battle of Vitoria, leading to the allied victory in the Peninsula War, leading to Napoleon’s exile.
Also, an ALS in Italian by Marie-Louise (Napoleon’s second wife who gave him his only son), signed “Maria Luigia,” one page, 7.25 x 9, dated May 1, 1820. Letter written as Duchess of Parma to Ferdinand I, King of Sicily, expressing her condolences following the assassination in Paris of the Duc de Berry, a relative of the King. In full: “The horrible event of Paris touches closely your heart undoubtedly afflicted, and permeates your family with a profound grief. For this reason, I want to manifest the feeling in my soul, by expressing to you my deepest condolence. The advise of my beloved aunt the Duchess of Orleans will certainly serve of comfort to my unfortunate cousin. I lament her unhappiness with all my heart. My dear ancestor, I beg your paternal benevolence, certain of my respectful attachment.” Both are double matted and framed together, along with color portraits of both, to an overall size of 23 x 29.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, small crease through signature and some light creasing to Napoleon’s letter; and several circular areas of toning, larger block of toning to body, and intersecting folds to Marie-Louise’s letter. An outstanding pairing of letters; Marie-Louise is particularly uncommon and this is the first we have ever offered. Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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